Kerry Accuses Russia of Stoking Fresh Unrest in Eastern Ukraine

Tells Senators 'Provocateurs' Creating Pretext for Another Possible Military Incursion

By

Michael R. Crittenden

Updated April 8, 2014 11:54 a.m. ET

WASHINGTON—Secretary of State John Kerry blamed "Russian provocateurs" for the growing unrest in eastern Ukraine, amplifying U.S. criticism while warning Moscow could use the actions by pro-Kremlin separatists as a pretext for further incursions into the embattled country.

Testifying before members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Mr. Kerry said there was little doubt that Russian officials were behind the protests and other clashes in eastern Ukraine over the last few days. Russian special forces and...